September 17, 2025 Community Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting Minutes

The purpose the Community Advisory Committee Meeting is to provide an opportunity for local and regional input regarding CMA operations, which helps us build a stronger case management system in our region.

September 17, 2025 Otero County Department of Human Services Case Management Agency (CMA)
Community Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting Minutes

Date: September 17, 2025
Time: 11:00 am

Attendees Present:

• Mary Jo Aragon - Member with Intellectual and/or developmental disabilities - attended virtually
• Donna Rohde - Staff Member

Absent:

• Vicky Maser - Family member
• Kayla Kaminsky - Member with Intellectual and/or developmental disabilities
• Ruben Rael - Family member
• David Monett - Member with other disability

Agenda

1.  Welcome and Overview of Agenda    11:05
2. Open Forum - Questions or Concerns    11:06
   No general concerns listed.  Mary Jo pointed out that folks seem to be overthinking issues and not taking as much responsibility for their own well-being as they could.  Issues abound – always have, always will and we need to adjust and move on.
3. Input About CMA Operations    11:10
   No input regarding the operations.  Mary Jo was very happy with her case manager and the assistance she receives from providers, the case manager and the community.
4. Review of Policies and Procedures    11:15
   1. Follow-Up About Items Discussed During Previous CAC Meeting 
      As promised, Mary Jo brought information regarding the utilization of golf carts, emphasizing the positive impact on well-being including getting outside, sunshine, fresh air and exercise.  She had contacted the local golf course and the receptionist was going to bring it up to the board.  She hasn’t heard back but now that it is fall and the golf courses are used less, she will follow up again.  She also mentioned it to her case manager who committed to discuss the option with local providers and owners of golf carts to discuss rental, rent-to-buy, purchase or other options. Mary Jo pointed out the obvious benefits regarding quality of life.
   2. Discussion of New Policies and Procedures
      No further discussion on policies that had been brought up.  Member reviewed the Medicaid Services document and felt well-informed.
   3. Policies and Procedures to be Reviewed During Next Meeting
      1. Mary Jo asked Donna to pick a policy or two for the next meeting’s review.  No suggestions.
5. Review of Complaints    11:25
   1. Follow-up on Complaints Discussed During Previous CAC Meeting
      There was no follow up needed on previously discussed complaints.
   2. Discussion of New Complaints
      There were no complaints this quarter. Mary Jo wondered if, given the political climate and tendency toward retaliation by society as a whole, members are staying quiet.  Donna will follow up if the trend continues.  It is important that members feel safe to bring concerns to the attention of the CMA and that the CAC have the opportunity to discuss.
6. Wrap Up/Next Steps    11:35
   1. Mary Jo is spearheading “Father’s Heart” Christmas toy give away and is involving the local nursing facility, promoting intergenerational activities.  The give-away will take place on December 20, 2025.  She will bring an update at the next meeting.
   2. Set 2026 meeting dates in December.
   3. Next Meeting Date and Time will be December 17, 2025 @ 11:00 a.m.